DeRease Lubron Caldwell's Obituary
DeRease Lubron Caldwell, 38, of Chattanooga, passed away Monday, November 10, 2025. He was born on March 12, 1987, and spent most of his life in the city he loved. DeRease graduated from Tyner Academy in 2005 and later earned an Associate Degree in Business and Trade with a focus in Automotive Technology/Collision Repair from Chattanooga State Community College in 2010. His passion for cars eventually led him to work at Porsche of Chattanooga, where he proudly combined his skill with his love for high-performance vehicles.
In 2007, he met the love of his life, Alonjua, and the two were married on October 14, 2017. Together they welcomed their son, Destin, in 2013—a moment that forever deepened DeRease’s purpose. As Destin grew, DeRease discovered his calling for mentorship and coaching. He poured his heart into youth sports—football, basketball, and baseball—using the experiences of his own difficult childhood to guide others with compassion. He sowed seeds of encouragement, kindness, joy, and confidence in every child he coached, leaving an impact that stretched far beyond the field or court.
Though not affiliated with a specific church, DeRease was a Christian and found spiritual nourishment through livestream sermons, especially from Transformation Church with Pastor Mike Todd.
He loved sports, cars, and laughter-filled moments with his family. DeRease had a gift for lighting up any room; with humor, warmth, and a magnetic personality, he became the life of every gathering and the heartbeat of every celebration. His true calling were people—connecting with them, uplifting them, and loving them fully.
DeRease was preceded in death by his children, Kiahna Caldwell and DeLonte Caldwell; his father, Eric Caldwell; grandfathers, Clerance Wallace and Henry Caldwell; and grandmothers, Johnymae Caldwell and Liv Caldwell.
DeRease is survived by his loving wife, Alonjua Caldwell; his son, Destin Caldwell; his mother, Yolanda Johnson; stepmother, Pamela Caldwell; grandmother, Doris Wallace; brother, Jeremy Caldwell; and sister, Tyrika Vinson. He is also survived by his in-laws: Alonzo Banks, Tamera Banks, Sumara Banks, and Seaira Banks; his niece, Jasilon Lattimore; nephew, Kaison Lattimore; and a host of devoted aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.
DeRease touched countless lives with his generosity of spirit, unforgettable personality, and unwavering love for his family. His absence leaves a profound ache, but his legacy of joy, compassion, and dedication to others will continue to shine through every life he touched.
DeRease will lie-in-state on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 3 p.m. in the Chapel with Pastor Mark Hickman as the Eulogist.
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